I think Gatorfan has it right. A good local business is an investment for its customers...long term (hopefully most feel this way). When a customer walks in the door, the key is to sell the sport not the products. The sport is what keeps the local guys profitable. And the only way to stay in business is to promote the sport through sharing information and giving the very best customer service.
Having a big "Walmart" type shop come in to town will certainly take a bite out of the bottom line regarding local shops. Fortunately, the already cultivated customer base will continue to enjoy what they have been come accustom to - personal and honest service. Let's face it - we need fossil fuel, milk, bread and toilet paper, hunting gear is a want not a need. And when these "stores" treat their customers like it is a need, local small business only prospers. At the end of the day, buying your hunting gear should be almost as fun as the hunt itself. I think working with folks who truly care about the sport and more importantly, your experience is priceless. Don't you think?